Meet Tracy Pham, our Multicultural Advisory Panel member. She is an entrepreneur and founder of VASIA, a bilingual startup blending the vibrant spirit of Vietnam with the energy of Australian business culture. Originally from Vietnam, Tracy brings a unique cross-cultural perspective to her work, navigating slang, communication styles and cultural differences with curiosity and heart. In this conversation, she shares how language, community values and a love for connection have helped her build bridges and a business across two different worlds. To learn more about her journey, challenges, and insights, we asked Tracy a few questions about what it takes to thrive across cultures.
Questions:
- Have you found any specific Australian slang, business jargon or accents particularly challenging to understand?
When I first moved here, I’d often hear phrases like “flat out,” “no worries,” or “having a yarn.” At first, they were a bit confusing—but over time, I came to really enjoy how these expressions reflect the laid-back and friendly way people connect here.
Instead of seeing the language differences as a hurdle, I treated them with curiosity. Asking questions and observing how people communicate helped me understand not just the words, but also the culture behind them. What I really appreciate is how Aussie slang often carries a sense of humour and mateship—it’s been a great way to feel more at home.
- Do you think there are advantages or disadvantages to conducting business in Vietnamese versus English within the startup community?
As someone still in the early stages of building VASIA, I’ve found that both languages serve distinct and important roles in how we operate. Vietnamese allows us to connect with local community members and early-stage founders in a culturally sensitive and meaningful way. English, on the other hand, is essential for forming partnerships, applying for grants, and increasing our visibility on a global scale.
We’re still refining how we balance the two, depending on the audience and context. This bilingual approach helps us stay grounded in our values while expanding our reach.
- How do you handle communication when pitching to Australian investors or partners who may not understand Vietnamese?
Since VASIA is still in its early stages, we focus on keeping our communication clear, professional, and culturally responsive. As a bilingual organisation, we work across both Vietnamese and English to ensure our message is accessible, respectful, and aligned with the needs of our diverse stakeholders.
- Have you ever felt that language differences impacted the clarity or success of your business negotiations?
Yes—especially in early conversations. I’ve had moments where a polite nod or vague agreement turned out not to mean full alignment. It taught me to follow up in writing, clarify next steps, and check in rather than assume we’re on the same page.
- Do you use interpreters or translation tools when dealing with clients, investors or partners? If so, how effective have they been?
I’ve used both interpreters and translation tools, depending on the setting. AI-based tools are useful for quick turnarounds or internal drafts, but when clarity, tone, and relationship-building matter—as they often do in meetings or negotiations—human interpreters are far more effective. Especially in multicultural business contexts, having someone who understands both the language and the cultural cues makes a noticeable difference.
- Have you ever worked with professional interpreters or translators in business settings? If so, how did you find the experience?
Yes, I’ve worked with professional interpreters during events, trade discussions, and community consultations. The most effective collaborations have been with interpreters who are not only fluent, but also culturally attuned and business-aware.
Where possible, I work with NAATI-certified professionals, as their training ensures accuracy and professionalism. I’ve found that when you take the time to brief them beforehand and treat them as part of the team, the result is smoother communication, stronger trust, and better outcomes overall.
- What cultural differences between Vietnam and Australia have had the biggest impact on your approach to business?
One key difference is around hierarchy and communication. In Vietnam, there’s often more deference to seniority and indirect feedback. In Australia, people tend to be more direct and informal. This has shaped how I adapt—balancing respect with clarity, especially in startup settings where decisions need to move quickly.
- How do Australian business values (like direct communication or work-life balance) compare with Vietnamese norms?
Australian work culture encourages balance and openness, which I really respect. In contrast, many Vietnamese professionals tend to work long hours and stay ‘always on’—a reflection of their strong work ethic and drive.
Experiencing both styles has made me more mindful of setting boundaries, being clear in communication, and recognising that rest and efficiency can go hand in hand.
- Have you encountered any misunderstandings or challenges due to cultural differences? How did you resolve them?
Yes, especially when working across cultures. Sometimes timelines or expectations aren’t discussed openly, which can lead to confusion. I’ve learned to ask early, clarify roles, and check in often. We’re still refining this at VASIA, but we’re improving with each collaboration.
- Are there any specific cultural practices or norms from Vietnam that you’ve successfully integrated into your business in Australia?
I’ve brought in some Vietnamese values around community and hospitality—like being warm, offering help, and building trust over time. At VASIA, we try to keep that spirit alive, even in small things like how we check in on members or collaborate. It helps keep our work grounded in people, not just outcomes.